Rangers defender Connor Goldson is putting his career at risk by returning from injury early, according to pundit Frank McAvennie.
The Gers defender was absent for around two months after picking up an injury in October and recently returned to action against Aberdeen.
With a lack of depth at the back, teenage defender Leon King stepped up in Goldson’s absence, but Rangers’ league form suffered – and that ultimately cost Giovanni van Bronckhorst his job.
The 30-year-old’s absence was felt, but it is important not to rush him back and risk a mistake or another injury, and McAvennie claims that this is vital for his career:
“If they have [rushed him back], it could be a big, big mistake if he gets injured again,” he told Football Insider.
“I do not get it. If he makes a mistake, then it could ruin his career. It could send him backwards. The fans will not forgive him if he is not right and he comes back and plays.
“If he is not doing the team any good, then he should not be there. It is a strange one. I feel for Goldson because you could see the hole that was left when he was out.“
TIF Thoughts on Goldson…
Whilst it is important that he does remain injury-free, we think Goldson is so crucial to the team that Michael Beale cannot afford to leave him out when he is available.
Rangers should bring in an additional centre-back during the January transfer window to ease the pressure on Goldson, who provided an assist as his team mounted a stunning late comeback win at Pittodrie earlier this week.
The Englishman has made 241 appearances for the club and has been a key figure in the defence for years. Should he pick up another bad injury, we fear that Rangers will continue to struggle this season, and although he is important, his minutes should be managed carefully as he continues to gain match fitness.
Therefore, it is a delicate balance Beale must strike if he is to save Rangers’ season.